For motorcycle enthusiasts, the 1990s will always be remembered as the golden era of two-wheeled machines that balanced performance, style, and engineering. Among the iconic motorcycles that defined this era, the Yamaha RX100 stands out as one of the most beloved and revered models in the history of Indian motorcycling.
Known for its lightweight build, incredible power-to-weight ratio, and an engine that delivered unmatched thrills, the Yamaha RX100 carved its name into the hearts of riders across the country. nearly three decades after its initial production, Yamaha is bringing back the RX100 for a new generation of riders, marking the return of a true legend in the motorcycle world.
Set to launch in 2025, the new Yamaha RX100 promises to recapture the essence of its predecessor while integrating modern technology and design to appeal to both nostalgic fans and a younger audience looking for a piece of history with a modern twist.
In this article, we explore the return of the Yamaha RX100, looking at what makes this iconic motorcycle such a beloved machine, how Yamaha plans to revive the legendary bike, and what the new RX100 will bring to the table in terms of design, performance, and features.
The Yamaha RX100: A Brief History
Launched in 1985, the Yamaha RX100 quickly became a cult classic in the Indian motorcycle market. Powered by a 98cc, single-cylinder, two-stroke engine, the RX100 was a powerhouse in its segment. Despite being small in size, it offered an exhilarating performance that was unmatched by other bikes in the same class. Its lightweight chassis, aggressive styling, and a robust engine made it a thrilling machine to ride, whether on highways or city streets.
The RX100 was the epitome of performance and fun on two wheels, offering a perfect balance of power and agility. Its distinctive sound, thanks to the two-stroke engine, became synonymous with the roar of freedom on the open road. Yamaha’s innovation in engineering and its dedication to performance made the RX100 a favorite among young riders, earning it a lasting legacy in the Indian market.
Production of the Yamaha RX100 was discontinued in 1996, largely due to increasing environmental concerns surrounding two-stroke engines and the shift toward more fuel-efficient and cleaner technologies. However, even after years of its discontinuation, the RX100 remains an enduring symbol of motorcycling passion. The sound of its engine, its racing lineage, and the unforgettable rush it provided made it a legendary bike that is still talked about today.
The New Yamaha RX100: What to Expect
The news of Yamaha resurrecting the RX100 for the 2025 model year has generated immense excitement among bike lovers, especially those who fondly remember their time with the original. However, the new RX100 will not merely be a nostalgic throwback; Yamaha plans to retain the spirit and performance of the old RX100 while incorporating modern technology, improved safety features, and environmental compliance.
Design and Styling
The 2025 Yamaha RX100 will stay true to its roots with a retro-inspired design, featuring the same sleek and minimalist lines that made the original so iconic. Expect to see a combination of traditional and contemporary elements in the design—such as the classic fuel tank shape, prominent chrome accents, and the instantly recognizable twin-pod analog instrument cluster.
The front end will feature a round halogen headlamp, a tribute to the original RX100’s design, paired with new-age LED elements to enhance visibility and modernize the look. The chrome-plated exhaust will evoke memories of the original bike’s signature sound, but it will be designed to comply with modern emission standards, ensuring that the new RX100 remains eco-friendly.
The bodywork will maintain the simplicity and agility that made the RX100 so maneuverable on crowded streets. With a lightweight chassis, compact dimensions, and a low seat height, the new RX100 will be designed to deliver an experience that is as thrilling and nimble as its predecessor.
Engine and Performance
One of the most anticipated aspects of the 2025 Yamaha RX100 is how Yamaha plans to capture the spirit of the original’s two-stroke engine while meeting the stringent environmental standards of today. The original RX100 featured a 98cc two-stroke engine that produced a punchy 11 horsepower, delivering an exciting ride with an exhilarating exhaust note. However, two-stroke engines are known for being less fuel-efficient and generating higher emissions, which ultimately led to the RX100 being phased out.
The new RX100 is expected to feature a modern, fuel-efficient, and eco-friendly engine that retains the same spirit of performance and thrill. Yamaha is likely to replace the two-stroke engine with a cleaner, more efficient four-stroke unit. The engine will likely be around 125cc to 150cc, ensuring that it delivers a healthy mix of power and fuel economy while remaining suitable for city commuting and highway runs.
Power output will be tuned to deliver around 10-12 horsepower, which would make the RX100 a nimble and spirited performer, just like its predecessor. The four-stroke engine will be more refined, quieter, and smoother, addressing environmental concerns while still offering an engaging riding experience.
Expect the new RX100 to come equipped with a 5-speed gearbox, offering smooth gear shifts and a more efficient power delivery. The bike will likely feature modern fuel-injection technology, improving fuel economy, reducing emissions, and providing consistent performance in varying weather conditions.
Suspension and Handling
The 2025 RX100 will be designed with agility in mind, allowing riders to navigate tight corners, urban traffic, and winding roads with ease. The suspension will feature telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, designed to balance comfort and performance.
The lightweight nature of the bike combined with a sporty suspension setup will ensure that the new RX100 offers an exhilarating ride, just like the original. It will retain the ability to zip through traffic with ease and deliver excellent handling in both city and highway conditions.
Braking and Safety Features
The new Yamaha RX100 will be equipped with modern safety features, including front and rear disc brakes for improved stopping power. The original RX100 was known for its peppy performance, and the new model will ensure that riders can safely handle its power with updated braking technology. Additionally, the RX100 will likely be equipped with features like Combined Braking System (CBS) or Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) in the higher variants, ensuring optimal braking performance under all conditions.
Safety is a key consideration for any modern motorcycle, and the new RX100 will feature improved tire technology for better grip, stability, and handling. It will likely come with tubeless tires, offering better safety and durability compared to the original model.
Technology and Features
While the Yamaha RX100 was a no-nonsense, simple bike, the 2025 model will incorporate modern technologies to appeal to the tech-savvy rider. Expect features like a digital-analog instrument cluster, Bluetooth connectivity for navigation and call alerts, and LED lighting to improve visibility. While maintaining the vintage appeal, these updates will offer convenience and enhance the overall riding experience.
The 2025 Yamaha RX100
Pricing and Availability
will likely be positioned as a premium entry-level motorcycle, with pricing aimed to attract a wide range of customers. While exact pricing details are yet to be confirmed, it is expected that the new RX100 will be competitively priced to appeal to both enthusiasts who have long desired the return of the RX100 and new riders looking for a stylish, performance-oriented bike in the 125cc-150cc segment.
Yamaha will likely launch the RX100 in select markets initially, including India, where the original RX100 has a loyal fan following. Depending on demand and market conditions, Yamaha may consider expanding availability to other regions as well.
Verdict: The Return of a Legend
The revival of the Yamaha RX100 is a long-awaited and exciting development for motorcycle enthusiasts, especially those who have fond memories of the original model. The 2025 RX100 promises to deliver an exceptional combination of nostalgia, modern technology, and performance, offering something special for both new riders and fans of the original bike.
With its blend of retro-inspired design, modern features, and efficient performance, the new Yamaha RX100 has the potential to reignite the spirit of motorcycling enthusiasts and set a new benchmark in the premium commuter motorcycle segment.
Whether you’re a rider who remembers the original RX100 or someone experiencing the magic of this iconic bike for the first time, the 2025 Yamaha RX100 is poised to leave a lasting mark on the motorcycle world once again.